Costa Blanca Lifestyle Magazine

Costa Blanca

Lifestyle

Magazine

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Welcome

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elcome to our 3rd edition and if you are reading this via our new updated online edition, please drop us an email and tell us what you think as we are constantly evaluating and researching new ways to deliver our content.

You can expect the usual focus on health and lifestyle choices in this edition, however, we have also taken a look at Morocco along with its cuisine.

We also offer our support to the River Cottage Chicken Out Campaign. A subject that really gets you thinking!

We feel it is important to take time out for ourselves and with this in mind you will find a fair few articles and sponsors dealing with that subject matter.

Anyway, enough of us rambling on. Thanks so much for taking the time to read our Magazine and your feedback thus far has been incredible and quite humbling.

Please remember we are a freely distributed magazine and the production costs are huge. Try to use our advertisers whenever you can and be sure to tell them that their support for Lifestyle is working! We would not be here without them.

Thanks once again and we sincerely hope that you enjoy this latest edition!

The Editors THIS COVER ARTIST - James Fox James Fox is a designer and digital artist from Birmingham in the UK, working on a commissioned and freelance basis for an international client base.

For more information please visit www.jamesfox.org

Annemarie is an artist living on the Costa Blanca.

Working as a spiritual artist her pieces are quite unique and becoming very sought after.

For information on how to contact Annemarie please contact the magazine.

Lifestyle

Advertising Sales 00 34 607 489 896 General Enquiries 00 34 652 764 908 Email cblmedia@gmail.com Photography and Design by Julian Nicholson julianleefree@hotmail.com

LAST COVER ARTIST Annemarie Boesveld

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The Costa Blanca Lifestyle Magazine and its Officers accept no responsibility for the accuracy of advertisers’ copy, their work, services or goods. Whilst we do our best to ensure content is correct, we cannot accept responsibility for admissions or errors. All materials with Costa Blanca Lifestyle Magazine are the

Contributors

Lynn Nicholson Julian Nicholson Kenny Corris Charlie Brogden Daniel Lopez Isabel Sentana Cremades Rosemarie Rolls Colin Harkness Donna Marie Bissonette

The Moroccan Connection By: Lynn Nicholson

The original inhabitants of Morocco were the Berber people. These people lived in large familial tribes and there was no actual recognized government over the area. Instead, tribal Berbers lived according to the rules of their tribal leaders and the rules of one tribe could be far removed from the rules of another tribe.

Because of this lack of unification of authority, Morocco was constantly invaded during the early stages of its development. The first attackers were the Phoenicians in the twelfth century B.C. They claimed a number of coastal settlements with great success, but were later conquered in return by the Carthaginians. In the 2nd century B.C., the Carthaginians became the target of an extensive Roman campaign and soon all their strongholds in the area were captured and converted. Over time the Roman Empire fell apart, allowing Arabs to move in and take over. Short but intense fights for control of the country between the Arabs and the Jews left it reeling and largely unstable. Fortunately, a man by the name of Ahmed I al-Man-sur managed to bring stability to the country during his dynasty. As a result the country flourished between 1579 and 1603 as Jews and Moors from Spain settled in Morocco. They each brought with them their culture and art and in the end gave Morocco much of the culture which is still present today.

Conflict between the Spanish and Portuguese in the early 15th century left the Portuguese in control of the Port of Cueta in 1415.

In 1578, however, the Moroccans rose against the Portuguese and regained control of that port. This was a start of a nationwide battle that resulted in Moroccan’s reclaiming almost all the

Morocco was divided between France and Spain with France receiving the larger portion. In 1911 Germany sent a gunboat to the French owned coastline of Morocco with the goal of claiming some of it for themselves. Fortunately war was averted when the French made an agreement with Germany whereby the French would keep control of Morocco whilst they allowed the Germans concessions elsewhere.

In 1950 the sultan of Morocco requested that Morocco become an independent country. Their initial request was declined. In 1957 Sultan Mohammed became king. This opened the way for independence and it wasn’t long afterwards that Spain relinquished the majority of its holdings in Morocco.

In 1974 King Hassan began a major campaign to reclaim control over the entire Sahara - much of which was still owned by Spain.

The International Court of Justice rejected Morocco’s application for total control of the Sahara. However, King Hussan was persistent and pushed forward nonetheless. Eventually, after secretly holding negotiations, Spain & Morocco made a deal. The Sahara was split into three between Morocco, Spain and Mauritania. In 1978 the Polisaro front succeeded in forcing the Mauritania out of the Sahara, but Morocco stood firm and unmoved. The United Nations organized a referendum of self-determination between those concerned and whilst this was generally agreed upon, to this day Morocco has continued to push for full control of the entire Saharan Desert.

On Friday July 23, 1999, King Hussan died. His death concluded the longest monarchy in modern history of the Arab world with a total of 38 years. Currently, King Hassan’s son Crown Prince sidi Mohammed rules Morocco as the 18th king in the Alawite Dynasty.

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oroccan cuisine is as varied as its culture. It has had so many diverse influences that its food is often layered with many different spices. The following spices are commonly used in Moroccan cuisine:

Cinnamon Cumin Turmeric Ginger Cayenne Pepper Paprika Aniseed Sesame Seed

Black Pepper Parsley Green Coriander Marjoram Mint Fragrant Waters Basil Onions Lemons

Garlic Eggs Honey Couscous Chick Peas Bread Olives Buttermilk

Examples of Traditional Dishes Bisteeya A triple layered savoury pastry: A layer of chicken is covered with a layer of eggs and a lemony-onion sauce and then topped with a layer of crushed almonds. Everything is wrapped in phyllo pastry and delicately covered with cinnamon and sugar.

Harira Soup This traditionally Berber soup is usually served during the holy festival month of Ramadan. Also great for cold weather!

Mechoui This roasted lamb dish is a great favourite! A paprika and cumin spice combination is pasted over the lamb and then it’s slowly cooked for about three hours. Generally seasoned with cumin & salt.

Chicken with Preserved Lemons Ingredients: 2 lbs of chicken, whole or in pieces 1 Piece Of Ginger 2 cloves garlic finely chopped 7-8 threads of saffron (soaked for 10 minutes in hot water) 3 Tablespoons of olive oil 1 small onion skin of one preserved lemon cut in four pieces (you can buy this in deli’s) 1 dozen green olives 2 Teaspoons of butter Pinch Of Sea Salt Method: Brown the chicken with the olive oil in a saucepan, add the salt, butter, ginger, onions, garlic, saffron (and saffron soaking water) and a further 1.5 cups of water. Bring the water to boil and turn the chicken, stir the mixture and reduce the heat to medium simmer. Add more water if necessary, to prevent the sauce from reducing completely. Remove the onion from the pot when it is cooked. When the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot, rub it with butter and put it in the oven at 350 degrees, for 10 - 15 minutes or until the skin is brown. Put the chicken back into the pot, add the olives and the preserved lemon, and cook for another 10 - 15 minutes. Place the chicken olives and lemon on a platter, let the sauce thicken and reduce and pour it over the chicken before serving.

Professional Qualifications for a Professional Career

How would you like to spend Christmas in the Caribbean or start your own business here in Spain?

A wealth of knowledge awaits you at The Beauty Institute Training Centre in Orba, Alicante. This is more than just a training centre, here you can obtain the qualifications you need to take you around the world, or simply stay in Spain!

The Beauty Institute has been accredited by, and is registered to train to the standards set by The International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC), which has colleges in over 24 different countries. It becomes one of only 3 such colleges in Spain offering The Beauty Specialist and Holistic Massage course lasting nearly one year.

The Institute, based in Orba, is where students will receive both practical and classroom tuition. With no more than 10 students to a class, you can be sure of receiving the focus and attention that is needed. Students have a chance to work in a ‘real Spa’ with ‘real clients’, as required, and The Beauty Institute even offers a Post-Graduation International Placement service. Vital to get you started.

Guest lecturers will visit The Institute to share information on a variety of subjects, ranging from a plastic surgeon to a representative of one of the world’s largest employers of Beauticians on cruise ships, giving the students a broader picture of the Beauty Industry, and ultimately, many more choices.

Courses range from one day to the full, comprehensive ITEC course lasting nearly one year. This course offers a study of anat-

sic first aid and much more, giving a solid foundation for anyone wishing to start their own business either upon qualifying or in the future.

On completion, an ITEC External Examiner from the UK visits the Institute and assesses each student’s practical and theory work, as well as holding written examinations. So you really have to work and achieve the results to pass!

Students enrolled on the January 2008 course range in age from 17 to 47 and travel from various towns such as Javea, Moraira and Altea to attend. The Beauty Institute even arranged local accommodation for one student from Poland who has made her home here for the duration of the course. Age is not important; it is the desire to succeed and a genuine interest in the course.

Denise Sanderson, owner of The Beauty Institute said, “This vocational course is ideal for school leavers and we have two or three on our January course, but it has been wonderful to also see the interest from more mature students wishing to follow a career in Beauty.”

The next ITEC course starts in August 2008, then January 2009.

Full details may be obtained on the Beauty Institute website.

If you’re interested in finding out more about this exciting career opportunity, don’t hesitate to contact The Beauty Institute on 96 558 3442, or email: info@thebeautyinstitute.es For more information on the available courses, visit the website at:

Heart & Soul Words: Lynn Nicholson Photos: Equus

Equus International EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

www.equushorses.com Lessons, Hacks & Livery.

Classes, Pension y Paseos de caballos.

Paartrijden,Pension & Wandelen met paard.

Lecons, Pension ets Promenades.

Undervisning, utflykter og hestevedlikehold.

f you are looking for a quiet ride out in the countryside or if you want to eventually become a champion show jumper, this is the place for you. No matter what your age or ability the Equus International Equestrian Centre has the perfect horse for everyone.

Based in Chirles, Polop, this fantastic riding school is the dream, and final creation, of Johanna and Teresa who have put their heart and soul into every aspect. They first searched the location, with the horses in mind as always, and then set to work on sourcing the best of everything.

The stables are brand new; the paddocks are completed with the richest sand available, protecting both the legs and feet of their horses and to ensure that you have a soft landing, should you need it! They then set to work on sourcing the

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horses, from all over Spain, and although each most definitely has their own personality, the common ground is their ability to work safely within a school environment. You can talk to Teresa or Johanna about finding you the right horse as they also sell horses, but only to the right people, and if you need it, they offer a full livery service.

Surrounded by the most beautiful countryside there are rides available for the beginner and the experienced, but what really stands out is the desire for safety and knowledge with everyone that passes through their gates.

There will be pony clubs and the opportunity for children to pay a monthly fee and not only take lessons but actually get down to the ‘nitty gritty’ of taking care of a horse, with both practical and verbal lessons, ensuring that every child understands the full responsibility of owning and riding a horse.

The centre is still being developed, with many plans for the future, but they are up and running and open for business and when you talk to both Teresa and Jo, you can see the future.

There will be a club house, picnic areas, and animal enclosures in fact, you will not just come for a ride, you will want to stay for the whole day.

If you are looking for a riding school where you can gain confidence, or want to simply pick up where you left off, then this is the place. Remember, this is not only fun but you will get fit in the process, what could be better. Book yourself a lesson today and look upon it as therapy! You deserve it!

Equus International www.equushorses.com Teresa 646 871 675

believe life is all about balance. Good health is about balance, the feeling of happiness is based around balance, and yet so many people opt to ignore their own needs, settling instead for trying to keep everyone else happy.

Once a week I like to go riding with a friend of mine through the forests up in the hills, whilst there I recharge. The time is about being me. No other titles like Mum, Wife, Editor, Cook, Cleaner etc. just me!

The space and activity allows me to forget about everything and my mind becomes purely focused on the experience, the energy and the excitement of riding the horse, along with the

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TAKE TIME

By Lynn Nicholson

sounds, not only of the surrounding nature, but also the one sided conversations with my horse!

The result? I feel energised, ready to take on the stresses of daily life. I feel confident. I feel physically exhausted, but mentally charged up. How do I feel emotionally? Emotionally I leave on a high.

This is why I believe we should all take the time to “be�, life is for living. We have heard it said so many times, that’s because it is true!

There is always time to do everything else, just make sure, at least once a week you put your name at the top of the list!

A Little Piece of Paradise on the Corner of Heaven Words by: Rosemarie Rolls

If there were ever a paradise waiting to be found here in Spain, you would find it in the region of the Sierra Segura Mountains. Just one and a half hours from Murcia City, take the A30 to Hellin and head west to Elche De La Sierra and Riopar. Here the pretty whitewashed villages go about their daily routine as if time has stood still for the last twenty years. The lo-

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Lifestyle Magazine

are lots of outdoor pursuits such as white water rafting, canoeing, and horse riding not to mention the walking and cycling. Riopar is a true paradise for nature lovers, it is a charming and romantic town with all amenities yet within unspoilt wilderness.

When I discovered this area it totally captured my heart, there are cal fiestas are still a meeting place for old friends from the next villages and the locals take the time to chat to the neighbours and play authentic Spanish games in the local hostelries.

The landscapes are varied and different around every corner, all with amazing mountain views, from lush green valleys laden with almond and olive groves to the pine clad hillsides, ideal for walking and cycling. Reservoirs, rivers and lakes all flow through this area, making the landscape rich and lush all year round.

Further west is the village of Riopar, often considered more French then Spanish due to its avenues of massive plane trees. Famous for its bronze works, the local wares can still be purchased here in the bronze shops.

Close by are the spectacular waterfalls, “Nacimiento Del Rio Mundo” which translated means the “birthplace of the river of the world”, you can walk to the entrance or take

still days after four years living here, that the landscape takes my breath away. Although I am an Estate Agent, first and foremost I sell a new lifestyle and the homes come second. This has to be the most beautiful part of Spain I have lived but more than that, the area has a special calm and serenity about it. We are set in a National park so outside of a village you need at least 10,000 sqmtrs to build a new house but all the plots we have are blessed with amazing mountain views.

New home prices start from 215,000 euros including the land and water and electricity.

There are also great bargains to be had with village houses, prices for reform start from just 30,000 euros and ready to move into homes from just 86,000 euros.

If you are looking for a new adventure, to relocate or simply would like to visit the area, stay in a typical Spanish village or book a cottage, see more of the Sierra Segura mountains and sample the local friendliness call

Designtime Bespoke Logo Design, Advertisements, Web sites, Brochures etc.

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Freefone: 900 111 909 Email concept@telefonica.net

It was an integral part of the first civilization that recognized the idea of marriage in law; ancient Egypt. Many Pharaohs took sisters and daughters amongst their numerous wives, the idea being to keep their dynastic bloodline truer than it would otherwise had been. This practice was not that common among middle and lower classes. The marriage also existed as a legally enforceable fact, and the wives actually had more rights in this ancient land than their western European counterparts in early modern history, including the right of divorce.

The “engagement” was also invented by the ancient Egyptians for the man and woman to get to know each other and test compatibility. The marriage contract stipulated all rights of both the bride and groom along with their duties, so they knew what to expect before the wedding itself.

The dowry was also in reverse here, where the prospective groom and his parents would go to the bride’s home, and he would pay her parent’s money to show he was capable of earning and keeping their daughter in good standing. He would also buy a personal gift for her, usually either made of gold or a gemstone.

The wedding itself would be a colourful affair, with a feast and much singing and dancing, before the newlyweds would retire for some private time together, with fresh wheat thrown into the air by the revelers to symbolize fertility.

The wedding ring, that most famous and instantly recognizable symbol of the (hopefully perpetual) joining of a man and a woman as husband and wife in the institution of marriage, has a long, wide spread and mysterious history. Its beginnings lie in the deserts of North Africa, again with the ancient Egyptian civilization and the connection of the river Nile. This river was the bringer of all fortune and life to the Pharaoh’s people and from plants growing on its’ banks the first wedding rings were fashioned.

Sedges, rushes and reeds, growing alongside the well-known papyrus were twisted and braided into rings for fingers and larger bracelets for wrists.

The ring is of course a circle and this was the symbol of eternity for the Egyptians as well as many other ancient cultures. It had no beginning and no end, like time. It returned to itself, like life; and the shape was worshipped in the form of the Sun and the Moon. The hole in the centre of the ring is not just space either; it is important in its own right as the symbol of the gateway, or door; leading to things and events both known and unknown.

It is not difficult therefore, to see how the ring and the gift of a ring began to be associated with love, in the hope that this most worthy of emotions could take on the characteristics of the circle and capture eternity.

They wore it like we do today, on the third finger of the left hand, because of a belief that the vein of that finger directly travelled from the heart. This legend was later taken up by the Greeks, when they conquered Egypt under the generalship of Alexander the Great in 332 B.C. and from them passed onto the Romans, who called this the ‘vena amoris’, which is Latin for ‘the vein of love’.

These early rings usually lasted about a single year before wear and tear took their inevitable toll. Hemp was probably the first choice, but some decided that they wanted a longer lasting material, and opted for leather, bone or ivory to craft their token of love.

The honeymoon is a relatively recent addition to the wedding theme (although what happens on it is as old as the hills). This term comes from the time in the middle ages where a couple were given gifts of a mead wine, which was brewed from fermented honey and spices, to drink for a month. Honey from the mead and moon for the length of time.

So the history of weddings is almost as long as the history of humanity, and they’re not going to go away either. The dream still lives, even if the marriage may not always be as starry eyed as its beginnings can be. But weddings are not only about romance, they are also about duty, wisdom, communication and honesty.

beatriz beauty center www.beatrizbeautycenter.com

cakemagic www.cake-magic.net Very special cakes for very special occasions. Thats the tag line on the web site and thats what you get! Val is nothing short of an artist when it comes to the creation of the Wedding breakfast centre piece!

val@cake-magic.net 667 603 141

Every bride wants to look fabulous on her special day. Beatriz wants you to feel like a true princess and can take care of you from your head to your toes. With a specialist bridal make-up service you are in both capable and professional hands. Read more about Beatriz within this edition!

Wedding contacts

966 882 528 beatrizbeautycenter@hotmail.com

Here are just a few companies, practising on the Costa Blanca, to make a note of. Remember, they don’t just specialise in weddings, but offer solutions for most events, celebrations or just plain old self appreciation!

pick’n’cruise www.pickncruisesc.com Since its inception in 2001, PicknCruise has grown into one of the foremost cruise retailers in the market place.

Choose from 250 cruise liners Departures from Spain Avoid air travel to UK ports No luggage restrictions Cruise the Med, Cruise the world Excellent prices Tailor made personal service Tel:96 649 17 11 or 96 649 1396 Mobile: 628783266

THE SMALLEST WRINKLE IRON IN THE WORLD This machine reduces wrinkles almost instantly, we tried it and the results were amazing!

Costa Blanca Lifestyle Magazine

http://www.galvanic2.com BRINGS THE SPA TO YOU Rejuvenate your complexion, revitalize your scalp, and refine your body with professional spa treatments窶馬o appointment necessary.

These were the claims so, in the interest of research, Lifestyle visited The Skills Centre down in Torrevieja to see what all the fuss was about.

This hand held machine was developed to remove the need to visit the spa, which is great if you are short of time. After your initial training on the machine, which is very straight forward, you can buy your own and continue your treatments at home.

It works on all areas of the body, but we tested the face and it has to be said there was a real difference, in fact, the changes continued for the next 48 hours, visibly smoother and plumper.

You can also use it on the head to help generate hair growth and on the body for definition.

It works using patented and self adjusting galvanic currents, in conjunction with interchangeable heads for the various parts of the body, and works with specially formulated products to achieve the best results. All natural and healthy.

There is so much to this that we really recommend that you give them a call and find out for yourself what it could do for you personally, but also as a business opportunity as they are now looking for additional people to help them build this product. We saw the figures and it certainly looked good, and the results did speak for themselves.

If you want to achieve what the celebrities do without having to live in a Spa, this is the answer.

If you would like a free demonstration or receive more information please contact the following: In Alicante and north of Alicante: Ric (0034) 667 299 756 or email ricard@mybigplanet.com South of Alicante: Angie (The Skills Centre) (0034) 677 815 633 or email angiehb@mail2world.com In the U.K.(Greater London area): Daniel (0044) 799 068 7871

THE BIG GAME

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Lifestyle

Magazine Feature Article

Words: Charlie Brogden & Daniel Lopez

Worldwide Fishing Safaris would like to welcome Daniel Lopez as the manager of our office in Campello, Alicante. Our company specialises in big game fishing worldwide. The company was founded in 1994 which was more of a passion before a business. Our main aim is to promote Tag and release fishing.

We think a billfish swimming is better than one hanging.

(Tag&Brag) Give the next angler the chance to catch the fish.

We also run competitions for all the family to be involved. This year we will be taking groups to Kenya, Mauritius and Cabo San Lucas. Our other destinations include Venezuela, Guatemala, Tobago and many more. One of our earlier tournaments in Kenya had a total of 348 sailfish released, so come and experience a trip of a lifetime.

We like our clients expectations to be fulfulled so we will only send you to destinations that are sure of results. If you have a dream fish let us put you on the right boat, with the right captain, at the right time. (Then it´s all up to you) One thing that you must always remember a bad days fishing is better than a bad day working!

Visit our website at www.worldwidefishingsafaris.es Or Call Daniel Lopez on 965635235

Worldwide Fishing Safaris da la bienvenida a Daniel López como gerente de nuestra nueva oficina de El Campello, Alicante. Estamos especializados en la pesca de altura con destinos en todo el mundo.

Empezamos a hacer realidad nuestra pasión por la pesca en 1994, año de constitución de la empresa en el Reino Unido.

Nuestro objetivo principal es el de promover la pesca con marcaje y devolución de los pescados. Un pez que nada es mucho mejor que uno colgando. (TAG&BRAG) Dale a otro pescador la oportunidad de pescar tu pez.

También organizamos competiciones a nivel social, haciendo así posible la participación de toda la familia. Este año nos vamos con grupos a Kenia, Islas Mauricio y Cabo San Lucas en México.

También tenemos destinos en Venezuela, Guatemala, Tobago y muchos otros lugares paradisíacos.

En nuestra última competición en Kenia los participantes marcaron y devolvieron 348 pez vela. No espere más, vengase a la edición de este año y viva una experiencia inolvidable.

Queremos ver cumplidos los deseos y expectativas de nuestros clientes por eso puede estar seguro que solo le enviamos a destinos donde verá su sueño hecho realidad.

Díganos cual es el pez que siempre ha soñado pescar y le pondremos en la embarcación con el capitán y la tripulación que necesita para ello. Ahora, todo depende de UD. Y si aún así los peces no quieren picar, recuerde que, mejor un día malo de pesca que uno de trabajo.

Buena mar!

Para más información llamar a Daniel 965 63 52 35

GODS GIFT By: Lynn Nicholson

he bible and the New Testament are full of references to the importance of the olive tree to mankind, from the dove that returned to Noah in the Ark with an olive branch in its beak, the symbol of peace to this day, to the Messiah whose Hebrew name comes from the action of anointing the head and the body with olive oil.

The Jews considered the olive tree to be ‘the king of trees’ and believed that eating olives and drinking olive oil built their wisdom and gave them heightened enlightenment.

Along the same theme, a group of archeologists who uncovered an olive press in Syria learned just how similar the process of extracting olive oil today is to what it was thousands of years ago, in the times of King David and Jesus. A week after they had left the site, the locals began to use the ancient press to extract olive oil!

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Olive oil ‘acts like painkiller’ Good quality olive oil contains a natural chemical that acts in a similar way to a painkiller, a US study says. Researchers found 50g of extra-virgin olive oil was equivalent to about a tenth of a dose of ibuprofen (BBC Broadcasting).

Throughout the ages, olive oil has been widely used for medicinal as well as culinary purposes. Using olive oil within your daily diet

can help digestion, delay ageing, it can prevent liver disorders, it can aid bone growth, it can strengthen your nails, help to heal after surgery or injury, it can lower your blood pressure, it is a great treatment for acne and when you are pregnant rub it on your belly to prevent stretch marks!

There are so many reasons why we should be consuming more oil and today’s medical experts also believe that olive oil can, in a lot of cases, help to prevent breast cancer, bowel cancer, diabetes and perhaps the most well known disease of the western world, heart disease.

Remember also, Olive Oil contains absolutely no cholesterol, but it will seek out and destroy bad cholesterol in your body. Switch from saturated fats to olive oil and watch your cholesterol levels drop.

In Lebanon, there is a village whose inhabitants drink a glass of olive oil in the morning and a glass of olive oil in the evening. The life-span of these people is 97 for men and 98 for women.

Oil is like a lubricant to the human body, and if you want proof, stick your finger into a block of butter and run it along. Now look at the horrid yellow lump stuck there. This is what will be sticking around your organs, particularly your heart. Now pour oil over your fingers and feel how it sooths and softens. This is the only proof you need to know why this wonderful oil should be a large part of your diet.

Solar System Within

Words: Lynn Nicholson

A physician without knowledge of astrology cannot rightly call himself a physician.

-Hippocrates, “Father of Medicine”

Michaela Friedrich

strology has been used in healing and medicine since ancient times. In the western world it originated in Egypt with its earliest texts being ascribed to Hermes Trismegistos.

It was taught in the Egyptian Mystery Schools and passed down to ancient Greece, where it was taught by Plato and practised by the Father of Medicine, Hippocrates, as well as the well-renowned physicians, Nostradamus and Paracelsus. In fact physicians’ firstly learned astrology before they even began their school for medicine because it was so synonymous with healing.

Medical Astrology became utilized vastly by the healers and alchemists of the Hermetic Tradition during the Renaissance and middle ages. In the 17th century, Nicholas Culpeper, an English astrologer and herbalist created a Medical Journal of herbs that corresponded with the planets, which are still in use today.

Interestingly, the words plants and planets are so similar, which most likely signifies an ancient wisdom regarding their correspondence.

So what is it? It reopens the treasure trove of ancient wisdom used in healing that has been held in secret since the Middle Ages. Now, in the new Age of Aquarius, we can honor the wisdom of our ancestors through the lens of the modern eye to a more universal appeal than its astrological predecessor. It has opened up the perception of a person’s astrological natal chart

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opens up many dimensions of the chart, including the emotional and psycho spiritual layers. Overall, it’s not just about healing physical symptoms; it’s a holistic vision on healing the soul, taking into consideration karma and dharma and evolution of the soul.

Michaela, based at Praxis Dr. Friedrich, combines modern principles with the classical wisdom from the Hermetic tradition.

Michaela has been working with modern alchemy being a doctor in biochemistry combining all her knowledge with the experience of natural medicine (homeopathy and energetic medicine). All of her work is based on at least 10 years of study so you can relax in the knowledge that you are being looked after by a professional.

She will utilize the astrology chart as a diagnostic tool to prevent disease or injuries. The signs, planets and elements of the chart correspond with plants, gemstones and even vitamins/minerals.

Therefore, herbs, foods, gemstones and supplements can be prescribed accordingly to optimise health and vitality. The chart’s planets, signs and elements also correspond with organs and body parts.

The main benefit from having a reading is that you can potentially identify organs or body parts that may need special attention, it is all part of the process of really understanding your own personal self and what helps you to operate at optimum levels at all times.

Waiting For The Flood

“take time to really try and connect with the animals.�

El Arca Guadalest Words: Lynn Nicholson

Serafin is the creator of the El Arca, or Noah’s Ark. Serafin takes the darkest of situations and brings light to them. His sanctuary should be a source of inspiration that we can achieve so much, and give so much, if we just try.

Away from the bright lights of the coast, and the huge money making attractions is a man who has dedicated his life to the plight of ill treated animals, mainly dumped after they have served their purpose. A strong reason to avoid the circus which promotes and uses such animals. We heard the story of two bears, two tigers and two horses left abandoned in a car park after the circus had ‘finished’ with them. Thankfully it was Serafin who was there to help.

Each animal has their story on display. Read them.

When you enter Guadalest, the main attraction is obviously to walk towards the old town, but turn left about 300 meters’ along the main road and you will find El Arca, otherwise known as

To get to Guadalest take the CV70 road out of Benidorm.

This is the same road that goes to Terra Mitica. Follow signs for La Nucia until a roundabout sends you off to the right heading for Guadalest. It’s no more than a 30 minute

Noah’s Ark. Here you can see many animals from around the world, and Serafin works hard at placing them in suitable homes, when we visited he was arranging for two large brown bears to be re-homed in England.

Serafin and his team of helpers genuinely care for the animals and it has a wonderful relaxed feeling as you walk around and get really close to the many different species, but those more dangerous animals are secure, and it is wonderful to see them actually on a natural floor rather than a concrete prison. The big cats are wonderful, it is just terribly sad that many have lived a shocking life prior to finding their way to El Arca and the hope of a brighter future that it offers them.

It costs very little to visit, and you can have a guided tour if you prefer, but it is truly wonderful to take your time, read all the notices and information boards and just take time to really try and connect with the animals. It is a very peaceful place, as well as thought provoking.

Arche Noah, Valle de Guadalest - Benimantell.

Tel: 96 597 23 59.

Open from 10 am to 8 pm Photographs supplied by – www.abdet.com

Actions Speak

LOUDER Than Words Words: Julian Nicholson

lthough jumping out of a perfectly good aeroplane whilst at dizzying heights above the earth might not seem like an overly good idea, the smiles that appear on the participants face would suggest otherwise. These images show Clare Rogers from Edi Rent a Car in El Campello on her first tandem skydive. The jump was in aid of the buildaid charity setup to assist the victims of the boxing day tsunami. Although no registered skydiving company exists on the Costa Blanca you can experience this thrill for yourself with a trip further north. Claire has been so bitten by the bug that she is now preparing to achieve her sky dive licence enabling her to jump solo and raise even more funds for worthy causes. If you fancy a go yourself why not make contact and make a difference to not only others but yourself!

A

www.skydiveempuriabrava.com www.buildaid.org.uk

Bio-Resonance Therapy, is it the new (old)

wonder cure?

by Julian Nicholson

I first heard about bio-resonance therapy about a year ago and to be honest, the concept went completely over my head, so much so I didn’t even bother investigating further, it all sounded like science fiction to me.

If you are not aware of bio-resonance therapy, let me explain (briefly and in laymans terms). Firstly we have to establish and accept a few statements as truth. The first being, that the human body is fundamentally energy (each atom containing a positive, a negative and a neutral charge). The second being that every physical thing on the surface of this planet is made up of atoms and each atom is moving or vibrating at different frequencies. This is in fact referred to as “the particle theory”.

The idea that all matter is composed of elementary particles dates to at least the 6th century BC. Atomism was studied by ancient Greek philosophers such as Leucippus, Democritus, and Epicurus. In the 19th century John Dalton concluded that each element of nature was composed of a single, unique type of particle.

Dalton believed these were the fundamental particles of nature and thus named them atoms, after the Greek word atomos, meaning “indivisible”. However, near the end of the century, physicists discovered that atoms were not, in fact, the fundamental particles of nature, but conglomerates of even smaller particles.

So, lets get back on track! What does this have to do with bio-resonance therapy? Well everything really.

My basic understanding of Bio-resonance is that when we become ill, diseased, stressed, addicted etc it is our fundamental particles vibrating or moving “out of frequency” and put very simply, Bio-resonance Therapy acts like a “tune up” by way of assisting our “particles” to vibrate at the correct frequency.

So where do the correct frequencies come from?

Do we have a template with which to detect incorrect frequencies? These are obviously key questions.

Bio-resonance was invented in 1977 by the German Franz Morell and his son-in-law Erich Rasche although obscure versions have been in operation since the 1920’s, with their origins firmly in electro-accupuncture.

With this in mind we can also ask the same questions of many ancient therapies including long established Chinese methods.

It has to be said that such things have not been scientifically proven, however, does this mean they don’t

sense. I do not know enough of quantum physics and nuclear physics to determine the effectiveness of these machines. Relying on what little information I do have on the subject and the testimonials I have read I would most certainly try it.

The aim of Bio-resonance Therapy is to restore healthy energetic patterns to the organs of the body and to remove all detrimental patterns from the energetic field.

So what would I use it for? Practitioners claim that the therapy can be used for everything and given the theory behind it, that makes total sense. The most common uses for Bio-resonance are: Stopping Smoking, with no pills or patches, no gum or hypnosis and with the claim that all harsh physical withdrawal symptoms are eliminated. There are programmes specifically designed to treat Menopausal Flushing, PMS, Period Pains & Weight Balancing with no pills, no diet, no calorie counting. For anger management it aims to eliminate all negative anger sources, activate calmness and peace of mind.

As you can probably tell, this is an extremely large subject to try and cover in a single article, however I have asked people that have tried it and the responses have been positive. As you can probably tell from this article the subject of Bio-resonance isn’t something you can become expert on overnight and one would imagine you would still be learning after a lifetime’s application and dedication to the subject.

As for my initial question, is Bio-resonance therapy the new wonder cure? It just might be.

Dalton believed these were the fundamental particles of nature and thus named them atoms, after the Greek word atomos, meaning “indivisible”

From the Hills of Peru.

Words by: Lynn Nicholson

Food has always fascinated me. Not

just the look and taste, but the origins. Take the potato, it was cultivated by the original people of Peru, the Incas. In its original state it can survive in conditions that most cereals could not, growing in the poorest of soils. The hardiest species can grow at 15,000 feet and there are 230 wild varieties. The Peruvians, who understood nature, realized its poisonous properties because they developed a treatment of potatoes that not only made them easy to store but, more importantly, made them digestible. They used a kind of freeze drying process giving a result known as chuno.

After harvesting, the potatoes were sliced and spread out and left over night in often freezing conditions. The next day large numbers of families came to tread out the moisture, the process continuing for several days until the potato, freed of its liquid content, could be stored as chuno. (I would point out here that these are not the potatoes we would find in our local supermarket so please do not try this at home!) The chuno was then eaten with squash, maize and beans with a little chilli and tomatoes.

The Spanish conquistadores found the potato to be a very cheap staple to feed their gold and silver mine slaves. They could grow tons of it on poor soil, where very little else could grow.

The potato was first grown in Europe in 1588, however, it was treated with a great deal of suspicion where many peasants viewed the plant as evil, with its angular bluish-purple, five pointed flowers, crimson stamens’ and mysterious underground workings.

were convinced that if you ate too many then you would indeed develop leprosy and in Switzerland it was blamed for scrofula.

Despite poverty and malnutrition within Munich in the 1790’s, they also believed they were poisonous and refused to eat them! The Scots refused for two hundred years as no one could find them mentioned within the Bible.

By 1600 the potato had entered Spain, Italy, Austria, Belgium, Holland, France, Switzerland, England, Germany, Portugal and Ireland.

By the nineteenth century Ireland had become an almost one crop state, proving to be a tragedy of short sighted monoculture. The potato blight of 1845 that struck the potato crops of northern Europe was devastating to the people of Ireland, who were the worst to suffer on the diet of mainly milk and potatoes. This time saw the grain prices rocket, milk ran out, cattle were slaughtered for their meat. Over a million people died of starvation, a further million who could manage the fare embarked for America, where the original potato came from.

Today the potato has become the fourth most important food crop in the world, after wheat, rice and maize. Approximately 30% of the crop is made into convenience foods such as instant mash, crisps and frozen chips and within the making of Swedish schnapps and some vodkas.

Today’s annual world potato crop is valued at more than 100 billion dollars and in Britain alone, each person consumes annually,

LEMON & GARLIC POTATOES Enough potatoes for you all, sliced into half inch pieces.

A whole head of garlic, two if they are small, cut in half to expose the little cloves inside.

Two whole lemons, cut in half.

A few big sprigs of Rosemary.

Good quality Olive Oil Preheat your oven to 200 (gas mark 6) In a big oven dish put some of the oil on the bottom and scatter in the potatoes.

Amongst the potatoes, put in the halved heads of garlic.

Add the lemon halves

Push the rosemary between the potatoes.

Cover with the remaining oil. (if your oil is good quality you will not need salt!)

Bake in the oven for about an hour, or until the potatoes are cooked through.

Give them a final shake, and lift out the potatoes.

With the back of a fork, squash the garlic and let the soft garlic mix with the remaining oil, squeeze out the juice from the lemons and mix all together in the bottom of the pan. Pour over the top of the potatoes. Delicious!

This is great hot or cold and you can always add more Extra Virgin Olive Oil!, and some freshly ground black pepper.

Rosemary Living in Spain gives us all the opportunity to eat really well, and for some it is easy to slip into the old ways of home and ‘seek’ out those old familiars, but if you take the time to really get to know what there is here in Spain, what to do with the foods and more importantly, what they do for you, I am sure that you will soon be eating a lot more healthily than before. Rosemary grows wild everywhere here, gone are the days of a few dry old sprigs in a plastic bag from the supermarket. You can pick it, wash it and store it in the kitchen to use within cooking or simply to add freshness to your room. If you chew it raw it will also help if you have eaten a big meal and have indigestion! Mother Nature is so clever! There is more than just the aroma to encourage you to use it. Rosemary improves circulation, stimulates the liver into eliminating toxins from the body, eases joint and headache pain and relieves cold symptoms, and combined with the garlic which has loads of benefits including the fact that it thins the blood and lowers cholesterol. This is a pretty healthy side dish to any meal. This recipe includes the use of

FOWL PLAY! Every day 100,000 birds die in standard chicken farms due to poor welfare conditions.

Words by: Lynn Nicholson Pictures: Used with permission Jamieoliver.com

In 2012 a ban on battery chickens will come into effect.

In the meantime, you need to be sure you know what you are eating!

Every now and then you come across someone who is putting something back into society, and not by some heroic gesture of donating millions to a charity, but is actually trying to educate people, encouraging them to think about their actions and really make a difference to the world. Jamie Oliver does just that and now he brings us face to face with the nightmare of ‘Fowl Dinners’.

Of course there will always be those people who ‘knock’ what he is trying to achieve, but quite honestly, they will probably never get it. They are far too caught up in the here and now, preferring to criticise something that they truly do not understand, nor want

to. For us here at Costa Blanca Lifestyle Magazine, and hopefully for you reading this, we know that it takes more than one person to effect change. We need to now consider our options when faced with ‘cheap’ chicken and realise the truth behind those 2 euro breakfasts before ordering them. (Remember that someone makes a profit out of it also!)

Now I know that some of you will be saying ‘but we live in Spain, what has this got to do with us?’

Do you know where your chickens come from? Do you have any idea about how they are reared? Then shouldn’t you make it your business to find out and do something about it?

Jamie tells us why it’s time to change the way we think about poultry products, particularly as some of it is cheaper, pound for pound, than dog food!

Jamie Oliver says: “You don’t have to eat chicken every day. In Britain we eat meat six-toseven times a week while many other European nationalities only eat meat three-to-four times a week. So consider cutting down on the amount of chicken you consume and just have better, nicer chicken when you have it.

Try buying a whole bird. Most chicken in Britain is consumed via pre-packed food like chicken breasts and - I cannot stress this enough - this is the most expensive way to buy chicken. If you buy a whole chicken then there are a million things you can do with it. You can probably get two meals out of a bird that feeds four people.

That’s eight whole portions of dinner from one bird… which is really good value!

You don’t necessarily have to spend more when you buy chicken. You could be clever and use cheaper cuts like the legs and thighs which are absolutely delicious. Free range or organic chicken legs and thighs are often pretty close in price to intensively-bred chicken breasts, so look for them.

When it comes to buying eggs I definitely don’t think anyone should be buying eggs from caged hens. There is barely any difference in price at all between a standard egg and a free range egg, so buy free range or organic eggs, it’s the right thing to do!”

Jamie has been promoting ‘Chicken Out!’ on his web site and you can find out all the facts you need, plus you can find additional activities that you can get involved with to make a difference.

‘The debate over this continues and I want to say well done to Hugh for his ongoing campaign ‘Chicken Out!’ says Jamie. You can check out his website by going to www.chickenout.tv.

For more information go to Jamie’s web site www.jamieoliver.com and make sure you register with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall at www. chickenout.tv You can make a difference, or you can simply choose to ignore it. Your choice.

Power in Action.....

By : Donna Marie Bissonette

Exercises to promote balance and harmony with Nature

T

hese exercises will allow people to experience first hand how Mother Earth responds to love and harmonious living. Also how our own health and vitality can be enhanced by working with nature.

Blessing Water: You are invited to bless your drinking water.

Place a note with the word LOVE or THANK YOU on your water bottle or water filter and leave it overnight, knowing that in the morning the water crystals will be full of vitality.

The human body is ninety per cent water, and is essential for health and well-being. When it is polluted and contaminated, our frequency is dramatically lowered and our health on all levels is affected. The amazing book by Masaru Emoto, The Hidden Messages in Water, demonstrates that even by writing the words love and thank you on a piece of paper and placing under your water can effect the crystalline structure of the water in a very positive way. So imagine what happens to our bodies if we bless our water and food before we consume!

Blessing the Water of the World: Take some of the blessed water and pour into your local river, lake or sea and know that this will act homoeopathically to help purify and raise the vibrations of the larger body of water. In this way we can all help to heal the world and Mother Nature. Let’s teach our children to do these simple little exercises so they may help spread the love and blessings and heal our planet.

Each time we stand near a body of water we have the power to change its quality with our love, gratitude and prayers. Our intention is everything.

Water The citizens of Golden Atlantis were aware that water washes, hydrates and is a cosmic cleanser, which purifies people at a cellular level. They knew that flowing water soothes emotions,

every temple and swam in rivers or picnicked by lakes whenever possible. Most of all, they liked to sit and contemplate where they could hear the sound of running water.

Purification Your guidance is to spend time today near water, preferably by a river, lake or the sea, or in a bath or shower. As you immerse yourself in the cosmic energy, sense it purifying each cell of your body. If you cannot physically be in or near water, visualise it.

Use water for deep inner and outer cleansing.

Taken from the Diana Cooper, Golden Atlantis, cards.

See www.dianacooper.com for further information.

All material is used with permission from the Diana Cooper School of Golden Atlantis Many Blessings, Donna Marie Donna Marie Bissonette is, a soon to be, Certified Golden Atlantis Teacher under the Diana Cooper School of Golden Atlantis.

She is available for workshops, leading meditations and visualizations on Golden Atlantis, where one may experience the beauty of this Golden Era, of Heaven on Earth.

You may contact Donna at e-mail: donnabissonette@gmail.com or Mobile: 671542639 The Hidden Messages in Water

by Masaru Emoto and David A. Thayne Donna is currently planning country walks designed to promote relaxation and inner peace. Please drop her an email if you would like to receive further infor-

S e l f

E s t e e m

Self-esteem means ‘appreciating your own worth and importance’ - and it helps you to cope better with the challenges of life.

Definitions of self-esteem vary with everyone you ask, but all agree that high self-esteem means that we appreciate ourselves and our personal worth. More specifically, it means: We have a positive attitude We value ourselves highly We’re convinced of our own abilities We see ourselves as competent, in control of our own lives and able to do what we want.

In addition, we compare ourselves favourably with others. Low self-esteem can mean helplessness, powerlessness Building self-esteem Working on our own self-esteem has huge implications for our life paths. We start to build our self-esteem as children, and this start follows us throughout our lives; it affects all our decisions - and, like a garden, needs constant work.

One example of self-esteem can be seen our choice of career.

For a person to make a non-traditional career choice, for example, a woman becoming a commercial pilot, or to go against family desires, requires someone to have a belief in their ability to make appropriate decisions, even though significant others in their life disagree with them.

Almost everyone can identify when they’re on top of the world, enjoying the benefits of high self-esteem. However, experts have concluded that high self-esteem can also act as a cushion for those times when life lets us down. Rejections, disappointments and failure are a part of daily life.

Life isn’t always fair; and even our best efforts aren’t always successful. But high esteem can help us get through life’s downturns.

Self-esteem: the ‘social vaccine’ Research into self-esteem has branded the concept a ‘social

and socially undesirable events..

The research made the following generalizations: •The family is a strong force in the development of self-esteem. The early years are particularly important in establishing an ‘authentic and abiding self-esteem’ in a person.

•High parental self-esteem is crucial to the ability to nurture high self-esteem and personal effectiveness in children.

•School climate plays an important role in the development of the self-esteem of students.

•People who hold themselves in high esteem are less likely to engage in destructive and self-destructive behaviour including child abuse, alcohol and drug abuse, violence and crime.

•Young girls who possess positive self-esteem are less likely to become pregnant as teenagers.

•High self-esteem can never be given to a person by another person or society. It must be sought, ‘earned’ by the individual for him or herself.

•Self-esteem may be expressed as an overall generic characteristic, for example, ‘she exhibits a high self-esteem’ or as a more specific behavioural attribute, such as ‘he certainly has a high sense of self-esteem in tackling a difficult writing task, but he has absolutely no belief in his competence to do anything numerical’ .

•Though the definition of the concept varies, commonly used terms include: security, connectedness, uniqueness, assertiveness, competence and spirituality.

Practising problem-solving with clarity, resolving conflicts, and clearly communicating your thoughts and desires isn’t only good for you - it’s good for those around you, so start building your self esteem, the easiest way is to start taking time just for you, even

Atonement tells the story of Cecilia Tallis (Knightley), and the housekeeper’s son, Robbie Turner (played by the increasingly prevalent James McAvoy). Set during the heat of 1935, their coming together and the ensuing drama brings in Cecilia’s thirteen-year old sister, Briony, whose actions prove to have far-reaching repercussions.

Michael Clayton (George Clooney) is what is known in the legal world as a ‘fixer’, or in the character’s own pejorative version, a ‘janitor’ who cleans up legal messes for VIPs and corporations on behalf of a prestigious New York City law firm. A former litigator, Clayton has found a niche that capitalises on his legal acumen and shrewd people skills, and yet, after 13 years on the job, finds himself increasingly disgusted with his clientele. The film covers four pivotal days of his life, in which a midlife crisis and a crisis of conscience neatly converge when he is called in to ‘fix’ a situation unfolding in one of his firm’s hottest cases.

Ratatouille tells the story of wannabe-chef Remy The Rat, who becomes drawn into the mantra of legendary cook Gusteau, that anyone can cook. The deceased Gusteau’s ghostly image appears to Remy, and guides him to his restaurant, whose standards have been slipping since his death. Remy, through the manipulation of a lowly restaurant worker called Linguini, soon starts secretly cooking the food, and this unusual set up proves to be a trove of treasures that Pixar carefully picks through.

Though the protestant ruler has been on the throne for decades in 1585, Elizabeth I’s reign is still under attack from both inside her country and from the continent. Her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots (Samantha Morton), carries the favour of the nation’s Catholics as she schemes for the throne from prison, while Spain’s King Philip II (Jordi Molla) plots an invasion with the power of his famous armada. But Elizabeth is also concerned with the arrival of Sir Walter Raleigh (Clive Owen), a charming pirate and adventurer. Unable to reconcile her feelings with her crown, she encourages Bess (Abbie Cornish), her beloved lady-in-waiting, to pursue a relationship with Raleigh.

The focus of Life In Cold Blood is on reptiles and amphibians, bringing into focus a series of creatures very much of all shapes and sizes. Across the episodes that make up the series - all of which are contained in this DVD set - the programme makers delve into the lives and mannerisms of its subjects. They do so with some quite stunning camera work, bringing to our screens things that have quite simply never been seen before.

Lifestyle Choices Sun ‘It is a truly remarkable read from someone who overcame a torrid start in life.’

Ping is struggling to protect the young dragon Kai from the ruthless enemies that stalk him.

Then an old friend sends her a secret map that shows the way to Dragon Haven and the Dragonkeeper sets out on the most important journey of her life. But when Ping and Kai arrive they are shocked to find that Dragon Haven has been abandoned and only a pile of dragon bones remains. What has happened to the wild creatures that roamed there? The answer comes in the form of a mysterious dragon who holds the key to Kai’s future...

Love is a journey across many cultures and places. It is a voyage that takes us back to the past as well as into the 21st century. Yet very little separates young lovers glowing under Shanghai’s futuristic skyline and an Eskimo couple in Greenland posing for the camera a century ago. Pictures span the globe, from Niger where seduction dances are performed by young men, to Kyoto where a modern couple on a scooter races past three geishas in traditional dress, to Rome where a father and daughter share a tender moment in a very public space, St. Peter’s Square.

The book is divided into four sections, each with a 2,000-word essay, celebrating the different phases and circumstances of love: Yesterday; Public; Private; Tomorrow. Love is a tribute to photography.

Full of recipes that look and taste delicious but are easy to recreate, Jean-Christophe Novelli will help you cook for every hour of the day and every day of the week. From weekday breakfasts that set you off to a healthy start, to indulgent Sunday brunches and amazing lunch and dinner recipes - both quick, easy suppers and celebratory feasts. Every recipe will include hints and tips that Jean-Christophe has picked up over the many years he has been a chef, and will be simple and straightforward to follow. A beautifully illustrated book with 100 colour photographs, “Aujourd’hui Novelli” will be like having Jean-Christophe in your kitchen with you.

The stakes in the novel’s plot are high: corporate crime on the largest scale. The duo of lawyers at the centre of the narrative are Mary and Wes Grace, who succeed in a multimillion dollar case against a chemical company, who have polluted a town with dumped toxic waste.

A slew of agonising deaths have followed this, but lawyers for the chemical company appeal, and a variety of legal shenanigans are employed -- and it is certainly not clear which way the scales of justice will be finally balanced.

The Tasting Season Is Upon Us

W

inter is a time of stagnation for the wine writing fraternity.

Rather like the vines, without whose perennial produce we would all be unemployed, we are mostly dormant during the colder, apparently inactive months. The vines are in fact slowly re-gathering sap ready for it to rise again in spring. Similarly wine writers might disturb their inertia with a piece about the year’s new late-harvested dessert wines, plus of course the traditional Christmas recommendations articles.

Some of us are lucky enough to be invited to the first barrel tastings of the new Grand Vins de Bordeaux; and occasionally a new wine, previously maturing in a dark cellar, will be launched onto the market and the press will be there. But generally for the wine writer there is a lot of heel kicking in winter.

The tasting season has arrived! The young red wines of the 2007 vintage are now up for tasting and may even be on the shelves already. Producers will be anxious to receive good reviews as it is the income from the sales of their ‘joven’ wines that brings in much needed cash-flow, whilst their crianza and reserva wines continue to free-load, lording it over the youngsters whilst actually contributing nothing, yet, to the empty coffers!

Also there are semi-crianza, or ‘roble’ wines that will now be ready for the market. These wines are the result of a consumer call for wines which enjoy an oak influence but which are not dominated by wood. Plus fully matured crianza and reserva wines of earlier years will now be available.

All these and many thousands more will be showcased at the various tastings throughout Spain and I’ll be there for Lifestyle – watch this space!

Colin Harkness

IT’S COOL OUTSIDE!

Words: Julian Nicholson Photo: Cabanas Buena Vista

Not Essential, Not Necessary, Sheer Indulgence - BUT WE LOVE THEM! These fantastic Cabanas are hand crafted, custom made, extremely attractive and fully functional. Each Cabana is a permanent structure; the materials used include seasoned wooden poles which are pressure impregnated to avoid rot and possible infestation. The roof covering is made from shredded coconut leaves imported from Brazil; these leaves are inter-layered with a hidden damp proof membrane providing the necessary water resistance.

These fabulous Cabanas have many uses, for example, an outside lounge, dining area, welcome shade for a Jacuzzi or exotic car port. One lucky couple even had a Cabana built over one end of their swimming pool, incorporating a welcome shady area for a pool bar.

Cabanas Buena Vista will carry out all

other associated works including different types of flooring, lighting etc. if required. The Cabana we saw was fitted with spot lights, ceiling fan and a rather funky little stereo. By installing the additional features you are able to create an extremely attractive and useable living space, ideal for entertaining or somewhere to just simply relax. With a distinct Caribbean feel these beautiful structures certainly bring a taste of the exotic to any location and will quickly become the main talking point at future parties.

Cabanas Buena Vista will visit your property, discuss your requirements, carry out a full site appraisal and prepare a fixed price quotation - all free of charge.

If you wish to view one of their completed Cabanas they would be pleased to arrange this for you.

Telephone: Linda 965 577 464 or 629 554 561

Which Witch?

lanca

Lifestyle Magazine

By Kenny Corris

Witches have had their publicity over the years.

Those herbalists with cats worked magic, but so many of them came to a sticky end when society saw the evil within, and created the myth steeped in wrongdoings that is the archetypal pattern of witchcraft; and which even today has its connotations. The modern day witch can worship Satan as his, or her, God if black magic is involved; and covens are becoming more and more popular.

The white witch however accepts God and mankind and worships the fertility of the land, the fruit of the womb, and the forces of nature. White is stronger than black, no question, and the force of energy when used for the common good is refreshing and revitalising and in abeyance of the natural seasons of the year; and their relevance in the scheme of things. Hollywood’s crone is set to fly at Halloween, but the strongest night of witches is in fact on my birthday; Walpurgis Night on the 30th of April is when World witches are called to the source, just over Scandinavia. Halloween is the night of travel, so you are more likely to spot them then. It’s all about harnessing power,

which the black witch does by malevolence, and the white witch does by love. Here on the Costa Blanca we celebrate each June on the beach the night of San Juan. As the effigies burn annually to ritually announce summer’s final presence, so do we also commit to the flame the bad things of the past year and the mal- intention of our hearts.

With the purity and rhythm of the tide we float out to sea our aspirations and the good intentions we have for the next year.

Whilst black witches are poised to mock the rituals of the Church, white witches are synthesising energetic spells for the common good of mankind through the mysticism of fecundity. It becomes then only too obvious just what is needed as we make our choice of allegiance; as we must surely ask, “Which Witch?” Only our hearts will know the difference, and our souls confirm the truth in our response!

Love and Light, Kenny Corris, http://www.kennycorris.com kennycorris@hotmail.com

tress is the great problem in Western society today. Excluding addictions from alcohol and drugs, the next nasty problem is probably sugar. The problem with sugar, and we are talking refined here, is that it is added to almost all of the prepared food that we eat. Now this causes a massive problem for our children, because hidden sugar is causing problems for the future, setting them up for a life of ill health and maybe diabetes.

Manufacturers of food have been adding more and more sugar to foods to make them sweet, this way they are easier to sell, especially to children, but this means, like a drug, we need more and more of it unfortunately, unlike drugs, it is not monitored, so we really are at the mercy of the manufacturers when we buy processed or prepared foods.

A strong argument indeed for buying and preparing your own meals! Refined sugar has a drug like effect on the body. It is a very powerful stimulant, and this is particularly true of those who have developed a dependency on it. Is that you? Well, maybe you start your day with a cereal, already with sugar in it, add milk and then put more sugar on top. You maybe cannot start your day without tea or coffee with a sugar in it. A couple of biscuits mid morning, another fix of sugar, something for lunch, sugar hidden there somewhere, a can of fizzy drink, that can have up to 20 teaspoons hidden in it, then maybe a chocolate bar in the afternoon, a few more cups of tea or coffee, a couple of drinks later, and you start to see how much sugar you could be consuming. Scary isn’t it. The problem is, these valueless foods fill you up and provide an instant lift, but they take the place of the foods that your body really needs. You often find you are even hungrier after the initial lift of the sugar has worn off, this is because your body starts screaming out for what it really needs, vitamins and minerals. This in the long term becomes very damaging. So consider if you are trying to control your intake of food, eating sugary foods will increase your appetite.

We need to start educating ourselves, and our children, to opt for healthier sweet options like fruit. Get into the habit of dropping an apple or a banana into your bag to snack on. Buy small bags of nuts or dried fruit. Most importantly, do not wait until you

S

Picture Perfect

w

e all have the dream of buying a ruin and converting it into the house of our dreams. We find the idyllic location, we find that the paperwork is in order and we sign and pay for our piece of Spain.

Then the reality kicks in!

Transforming a pile of stones into your dream, especially if you do not speak the language, can quickly turn into a nightmare, so before you spend fortunes on getting it wrong, find yourself a project manager.

Perfect properties offer the service you are looking for. You show them your project, you tell them your vision and then you tell them your budget. After that, you sit back and wait for it all to be completed!

Duncan, the owner, offers you a service which ensures you get the job done properly and on time. He will work with you throughout the project, giving advice and ensuring that not only are jobs completed to a high standard, but that they are safe. Duncan completely transformed his own home, and he

Sugar & STRESS

By Lynn Nicholson

are ready to kill someone if you do not eat before you do, this is when the vending machine, or the petrol station, becomes your dealer.

You do get an instant life, but you also come crashing down the other side also. This is where the strong link with stress lies.

Once the lift has worn off, we are left feeling a whole lot worse than before. People start to show signs of erratic behaviour, mood swings and aggression. Look at the links now with disruptive children and their diets.

The other serious consideration is that our bodies are not designed to consume refined sugar, so this then puts a strain, and added stress, on our internal organs. If you want to feel good you need to think about what is happening on the inside, as what happens on the inside reflects on how you feel and how you look.

If you put rubbish in your system you will eventually look rubbish!

Sounds harsh, but nobody wants to look grey and worn out. We all want to look fresh, youthful and alive!

If you want to become more sugar aware, avoid sugar for two weeks , and I mean all sugar, so check what you are eating, and after two weeks, eat a spoonful of sugar. The taste will seem overpoweringly sweet, and it will, or at least it should, turn you off sugar for quite a while.

Good food, a balanced diet and taking care of yourself mentally and emotional will give you all the highs you need, and they will be long lasting, not short lived. They will also help you lead a long and healthy life. Is refined sugar really worth giving up all that?

he also likes to include as much of the original features as possible whilst creating a modern house you can live in.

Even if you are looking to simply extend on your property you will require the services of Perfect Properties. They can source you the architect you require and can help you design your plans offering you the advice you need before you start!

Perfect properties is a fully legal company, another very important aspect when looking to commence any building project, and they have a team of people with all the skills required, therefore if you need plumbing work within your project then you will have a qualified plumber doing the work, not someone who will ‘give it a go’.

Save yourself time, money and more importantly your sanity by getting in the professionals. Talk to Duncan about your project and see your dreams come to reality much quicker than you ever imagined.

The alternative does not bare thinking about!

Perfect Properties Construction services Land Line 0034 965 690 460 Mobile 0034 608 767 213 Fax 0034 965 690 460

IMAGE CONCIOUS Words: Lynn Nicholson Pictures: DNI Makeup

“NOTHING IS GOOD OR BAD, ONE IS SIMPLY BETTER!” Carolle Partington is an Image Consultant. Not your usual one, but someone who passionately believes in helping others achieve their optimum. She works with individuals to really identify what they want to achieve in life, what message they are trying to put across and most importantly, really understanding themselves both physically, mentally and emotionally. She gives them choices, nothing is good or bad, but one will be better. Carolle takes away the fear of getting it wrong, and equips you with the skills to get it right.

When you think about how many of us have clothes hanging in the wardrobe with tags still attached we can all relate to this!

She helps her clients actually identify and acknowledge a problem which makes the process more than just finding the clothes and colours that suit you, it is a process that allows the client to move forward with renewed confidence and therefore heightened self esteem.

So sure is Carolle of her success rate, and her clients range across the board right up to top ranking politicians, that she guarantees that if you do not see an increase of 30% in your salary over a 2 year period she will refund your fees to her.

Alongside this, Carolle has a shop in Alicante, DNI make up, where you can buy make up, take courses in how to achieve the best look right through to professional qualifications. Again, how many cosmetic items have we purchased that now linger in drawers and boxes? Wouldn’t it be great to know exactly how to enhance our features and get it right every time.

If we are planning to get married or go to a special event where our outfit will be quite expensive, it is much better to consult an expert to make sure it is perfect and an investment rather than a lot of money for once worn and never again. Then of course we need the perfect make-up, also personalised for us so it is natural and long lasting.

Those in the know want Carolle to help them, 2008 sees Carolle flying out to Chicago to appear on Oprah Winfrey, helping Oprah’s guests to start the journey of self appreciation and building their confidence. A formidable recommendation!

So, before you go on your next shopping spree make a call first, and invest in getting it right.

www.dni-makeup.com www.carollepartington.com Telephone: 616 923 096

Every now and then we demand to be pampered! It is in our genes, everyone needs to feel special at one time or another and this is exactly the ethos of the Beatriz Beauty Center!

You realize when you walk in that nothing is too much! The main aim is that you leave confident and on top of the world, all you have to do is let them know what it is you want, what you are trying to achieve and why you want this. Then the magic begins!

Annemie is dedicated to making you feel wonderful. She listens, and she translates your wishes into treatments, and she has many to offer, including the latest technology from Israel, used by all the big stars, which uses Electric Light Optical Synergy. It basically can turn a difficult area in your body into something you thought could never happen! If you do not believe me, visit the salon and take a look at the ‘before & after’ pictures.

Having chatted with Annemie, there is no way she would entertain anything she did not believe in, so drop in, you will find her at Cap Negret in Altea directly on the N332, and take a look, and find out about all their treatments! You will not be disappointed. www.beatrizbeautycenter.com 96 688 25 28

THE ORIGIN OF REIKI Extract From www.bodyharmonytherapies.co.uk The Reiki Art of Natural Healing was discovered at the turn of the century by Dr Mikao Usui. He believed the teachers such as Jesus and Buddha were in contact with a transcendent source of energy when they taught and performed healing.

He believed that this source is always present. His question was - how to make contact with it? To find an answer, Dr Usui went on a quest. He spent many years traveling, studying ancient texts from both Eastern and Western traditions. These years of study and prayer prepared him for a deep meditation in which he received the gift of healing.

Dr Usui shared his knowledge with others. His method of teaching and healing was passed from Master to teacher to student.

This healing art is known as Usui Shiko Ryoho or The Usui System of Natural Healing.

Body Harmony Therapies Christine Quinlan, the founder of Body Harmony Therapies, is a Reiki Master, which in simple terms means she is able to offer healing and is also able to teach the art, and for those of you who have never met Christine, I can promise you will not meet a more approachable person who you will feel instantly at ease with.

Essential if you are looking for a teacher to take you through the process.

You can read a great deal more about Reiki on Christine’s web site, but I really recommend that if you have any questions, or would simply like to know more, give her a call. You may find that this is not for you, but there is a lot more to Body Harmony Therapies than just Reiki. Christine’s goal is to bring you into balance, through being in balance you can really start to move forward and once in balance you can identify and acknowledge many aspects of yourself which in turn, can be life changing.

Christine Quinlan Guardamar- Alicante Tel No: (0034) 966 795 103

Me llamo Mª Isabel Sentana Cremades. Nací el 23 de octubre de 1947. A los 18 años inicié mi carrera profesional docente en un pueblecito llamado San Isidro de Albatera. He estado en otras localidades como Monforte, Crevillente y Elche. A los 27 años Nació mi primer hijo y estuve excedente durante nueve años, época en la que me entregué al cuidado de mis hijos y mi familia.

y también a que el alumno quiera aprender.

A los 36 años, reingresé y desde entonces, ejercí mi carrera docente en este bello y singular pueblo de Campello, en el colegio Rafael Altamira. Y aquí si Dios quiere, diré adiós a mi carrera profesional, pues éste, será mi último año.

Otro objetivo, que también he intentado plasmar en ellos, es la práctica de valores: SINCERIDAD, HONESTIDAD, AMISTAD, RESPONSABILIDAD, y sobre todo el que no dañen a nadie ni física ni moralmente. Por eso han aprendido muy bien la frase: “NO ABRAS LOS LABIOS , SI LO QUE VAS A DECIR, NO ES MÁS HERMOSO QUE EL SILENCIO”.

Durante toda mi vida, he trabajado por vocación. Por este motivo he sido uno de esos seres privilegiados que no he tenido “conciencia” de estar trabajando, porque realmente, me he dedicado a algo que me gusta y que me ha encantado hacerlo.

Trabajar con niños, a pesar de los tiempos que corren, es gratificante y enriquecedor.

En todas las profesiones hay “luces y sombras”, por supuesto también en la docencia; pero por mi experiencia personal, las luces han iluminado totalmente a las sombras.

Lo único que he intentado es, ser MAESTRA, porque no es lo mismo que ser profesora. El profesor enseña la

El objetivo primordial que yo he intentado inculcar a mis alumnos es que aprendan con ilusión, porque es un bien para ellos. Una vez conseguida esta meta, trabajan, estudian y lo hacen porque quieren, no porque se les obligue.

Por supuesto, otro objetivo es, el que sea fácil para ellos asimilar los conceptos que enseñaba, explicándoles y siendo constante en el trabajo.

A partir de ahora, en que dejo mi actividad docente, tengo en mi vida centenares de recuerdos, centenares de niños con nombres y apellidos que posiblemente me recuerden, pero si sólo he conseguido en la mitad de ellos, o en la cuarta parte ,que formen parte de su vida los objetivos que me propuse, habrá valido la pena.

Tengo una gran afición que es la pintura. Ahora, que el tiempo me lo permitirá, me dedicaré a ella intentando plasmar, la luz, la vida, las experiencias vividas, y el re-

End of Term REPORT By: Mª Isabel Sentana Cremades

My name is Mª Isabel Sentana Cremades. I was born on 23 of October of 1947. For the first 18 years I began my educational professional career in a town called San Isidro de Albatera.

I have worked in other localities like Monforte, Crevillente and Elche. At 27 years old my first son was born and during the first nine years, I gave to the care of my children and my family. At the age of 36 and until today, I restarted my educational career in this beautiful and singular town of Campello, in the school Rafael Altamira. And here if God wants, I will say good bye to my professional career, because this one, will be my last year. During all my life, I have worked by vocation. For this reason I have been one of those privileged beings who Is not aware “to be working”, because really, I have dedicated myself to something I love and that has enchanted me. In all the years that have passed I still find working with children both rewarding and enriching. In all the professions there are “lights and shades”, of course also in teaching; but by my personal experience, the lights have illuminated totally in the shades. The only thing that I have tried is, to be MASTERFUL, because it is not just like to be professor. The professor teaches the matter that he distributes, the teacher, teaches, installs values, and mainly “HE EDUCATES” knowledge to be, to knowing how to behave, and also to that the student

wants to learn. The fundamental objective that I have tried to instill to my students is that they learn with imagination, because it is good for them. Once obtained this goal, they work, they study and they do it because they want, because is not forced on them. Another objective, which also I have tried to shape in them, is the practice of values: SINCERITY, HONESTY, FRIENDSHIP, RESPONSIBILITY, and mainly that they do not morally damage anybody neither physical nor mentally. For that reason they have learned very well the phrase: “YOU DO NOT OPEN The LIPS, IF WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO SAY, IS NOT MORE BEAUTIFUL THAN SILENCE”. Of course, another objective is, to assimilate the concepts that I teach and for them to apply those constants in their work. From now on, in which I leave my educational career, I have in my life hundreds of memories, hundreds of children with full name that I can remember and whom may possibly remember me, but if I have only obtained in half of them, or in fourth part, that comprises of their life the objectives that I set out, it will have been worth the trouble. I have a great love that is painting. Now, that time will allow me, I will dedicate myself to it trying to shape, the lived light, life, experiences, and the memory of those students who have been the drive and the sense of my life.

SKILLS For

LIFE

By Lynn Nicholson

H

eaded by Angie, The Skills Centre is a training school for hairdressing, beauty therapy, barbering and complimentary therapies.

The main focus of this training school is to produce qualified (in 2006 they became an approved City and Guilds centre) professional members of the hair and beauty world, opening up the world for their students in as much as they can take their skills anywhere!

Having visited the centre you realize that the course is designed around having fun whilst learning, but be under no illusion, if you sign up here you are expected to work, as it is not only your reputation at stake but that of the skills centre and under no circumstances will you be allowed to slack!

You will be involved in practical work, but also there is a great deal of written work, and you need to prove that you have studied and worked to achieve the results, that said, there is always someone at hand to offer guidance and help, it really works on the basis of what you put in is what you get out!

Anyone can enroll, at any age, what is important is that you have the vocation, that you are interested in helping people achieve the look they want, after all, the results of your hairdresser or

beautician can have a powerful impact on your self esteem, so not only do you need to be good, you also need to be a good listener to really understand what your client is looking for.

Both the hairdressing and beauty salons are open to the public between 10am and 4pm, this gives the students the opportunity to work in a ‘real life’ situation, whilst still having tutors at their side, this is also helps build their confidence before entering into the ‘real world’.

For those of you already working within a salon, you can take additional courses at the centre to enhance your services to your clients. The courses range from hair extension to anatomy and physiology, the point is, all the courses at taught to NVQ standards so you leave not just with a certificate, but the knowledge that you have received excellent training, which can only go to improve your income, whilst guaranteeing your clients a top class service.

The first stage is obviously the telephone call. Find out what The Skills Centre can do for you. This may be the call that starts you on your career; it could also be the call that improves your current turnover, either way, make the call and find out. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Telephone 0034 966 927 704 Mobile : 0034 677 815 633 Email : theskillscentre@mail2world.com

OMEGA 3 Words: Lynn Nicholson

Perhaps it was the amount of fish oil that the Vikings ate that gave them such good health, vigor and brains that when they left their Northern homelands they were able to conquer and colonize not only much of the UK but Ireland, large areas of France and also to spread eastwards into Russia and down to the Balkans.

Their strength not only lay in their muscles but in their intellect.

Although Vikings were great warriors this didn’t stop them from also being philosophers, poets and artists. Fish oil is known to help the joints, to prevent heart disease and strokes but few realize that it has an influence on intellectual development, especially in babies and in young children. The magic fish oil that may now help someone win a place at University may have been the basis of the great minds that wrote the sagas, the Viking poetry, and gave us carvings and sculpture that museums and billionaires fight for in 21st century auction houses. Fish oils almost certainly accounted for the Viking’s record of good health, a standard of health only matched today by fish eating Inuits (Eskimos).

So what is Omega 3? Omega 3s are “good fats” that the body requires. More specifically they are types of polyunsaturated fatty acids that cannot be made in the body and must be obtained through a healthy, balanced diet. Because of this they are described as Essential Fatty Acids.

The richest source of Omega 3s is oily fish, which is why the government recommends everyone should have 2 portions of oily fish a week, which here in Spain really is not a problem!, but if your children really do not like fish then you can always buy good supplements in health food shops.

Two of the most important Omega 3 fatty acids are EPA and DHA. There has been growing research on their beneficial effect on children’s learning, concentration, as well as heart health and joints in adults and infant development.

Omega 3 (fish oil) can improve the health of skin, nails and hair.

Proper skin care depends on proper nutrition, and clinical trials have shown that omega-3 fats can be successful in the treatment of eczema. Omega 3 can help in the process of cell development and therefore can influence the smoothness and moistness of skin.

What foods provide omega 3 fatty acids?

Oily fish such as Salmon or Sardines, flax seeds and walnuts are also excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids. You should also include within your diet, cauliflower, cabbage, cloves and mustard seeds, prawns, cod, tuna, soybeans, tofu, kale, brussell sprouts, beans and of course Olive Oil. Start adding more to your children’s diet, drizzle olive oil over jacket potatoes, sprinkle walnuts onto salads, include more steamed veg and introduce your children to the joy of eating fish, and remember to remind them about the Vikings!

Looking for a renovation project?

A fixeruper?

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FINE INDIAN CUISINE If you are looking for a money spinner or a holiday home in the countryside, call Rose on 687 722 804 or visit the website at

Enjoy a 10% Discount on Takeaway Orders

www.espanacountryhomes.com Finished and ready to move into homes also available from as little as 42,000 euros.

“All properties set in the magnificent National

Full Catering Service for Parties and Events Big Buffet -Sunday / Wednesday Only Special Lunch Menu Everyday

As much as we are told that the Northern Europeans are heading to Spain in their thousands, remember that the number of people heading back to UK shores is also on the increase (proportionately).

Many people head for a life in the sun only to realize the reality is far from the dream. The biggest problem is employment. Jobs are not that easy to find (if you don’t speak Spanish) and the difference in pay structure is huge. A friend of mine went from a sales management position in the UK to the same job in Spain and suffered a huge 75% wage cut! It just so happens that the friend in question was well aware of this before making the move and his reasons for moving to Spain were mainly lifestyle orientated.

It seems that the reasons for moving back to the UK are almost perfectly opposite to the reasons for moving out here. The grass is always greener etc.

So whether you are moving out here or moving back, one thing remains highly probable, you will undoubtedly have belongings that need to go with you! If, like me, you packed all your belongings into a hire van and moved yourself (in my case Labrador / 3 Cats / Hamster and a Goldfish) you will have learned that it is in fact a false economy. It’s not just a matter of fuel /van /tolls / food costs, it’s also about time and stress!

With the growth in this particular market sector we are beginning to see many removal companies bursting into life, however, scratch the surface and what we are actually faced with is opportunists with a van! So before you let price dictate your needs let’s explore something. How much would you pay for a non professional to load all your worldly belongings onto an uninsured van then change his initial quote once all the goods are loaded, and not even know for certain that they are going to arrive safe and sound if at all? In short why gamble with your belongings?

A quick check list for you: Look for the B.A.R. logo; it’s like the kite mark on electrical goods, but for removal firms. B.A.R. is highly respected in the industry, it is policed and guarantees insurance are in place and certain operational procedures are adhered too.

Try to use long established companies and beware the man in a van. 2 kinds of insurance are available, you can have a blanket type cover that covers up to a maximum amount or you can have a separate policy for more valuable items. Most importantly, get a recommendation if you can!

I spoke to Barbara Chadwick and Phil Couch at Home 2 Home

in Benitachell “We established this business in 1998 and cover all international areas through a global network of operators. Local removals are also a substantial part of our business. We take a very personal approach with a full inventory quotation, giving specific details and preventing any nasty surprises.”

When I think back to trying to get some sleep, curled up in the cab of a transit van amongst my menagerie, I really couldn’t recommend that you get a professional removal company loud enough.

Precious Cargo

By Julian Nicholson

One To Watch!

Jack Says is a gripping contemporary film noir thriller. Jack awakes with amnesia in London next to the blood-soaked corpse of The Guv’nor, a much-feared underworld figure. Jack has just enough time and sense to flee, and, finding the address of an old gir lfriend, heads to Paris to lay low. Always just one step ahead of the pursuing British police, Jack rekindles old feelings for his ex, Erin, imagining the life he could have. But trouble follows a guy like Jack, and he is soon drawn into a web of deceit by the mysterious cabaret singer Girl X, who wants his help in dealing with the attentions of Garvey, a woman not to be crossed. Soon Jack is forced to deal with the consequences of a ser ies of tragic events, all the while struggling to remember who he is, and what he is capable of.

“When developing a look and feel for JACK SAYS we decided that we would build upon the successful style established in Pulp Fiction and Sin City.”

Simon McPhillips - Producer

Visit www.jacksays.co.uk for more information

JACK SAYS was Mike’s last feature before his untimely death.

Mike wonderfully captures the role of the Guv’nor and agreed to be involved in the project due to the script strengths. The film has since

Riccardo, Maribel, Daniëllo & Claire are proud to present Ristorante Pizzeria L’Antiga Italia with it’s homemade Italian food. The menu ranges from homemade bread, pastas, pizzas, focaccia and delicious Italian meat dishes to the amazing desserts, sweet pizzas, the famous Chocolate Etna and Pannacotta. We have more than 20 years experience and all set in a cosy and friendly atmosphere. Please visit to find out for yourselves.

A NEW ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Riccardo, Maribel, Daniëllo & Claire estan orgullosos de presentar Ristorante Pizzeria L’Antiga Italia con los sabores originales de la antigua cocina italiana desde el pan casero, pastas, pizzas, deliciosos platos de carne con salsas italianas a los postres, pizzas dulces, el famoso Etna de Chocolate y Pannacotta.

Con más de 20 años de experiencia y todo en un ambiente cómodo y acogedor. Por favor, visítenos y comprueben ustedes mismos

Avda. Almadrba, 49 (Plaza Mayor) Pueblo Espanol 03560 EL Campello 965 632 662

olling r n E 8 N ow t 200 p e S For

The first and only academy in the area affiliated with City and Guilds

New USB Turntable Record Deck Player Vinyl to MP3 PC This baby records in MP3 format straight to your USB stick or SD memory card You can then upload your converted tunes to your computer for burning them to CD, transferring to your Ipod etc...

Also a fully functional record player with built in speakers.

A stereo, belt-drive turntable with USB and SD Card output which is ideal for converting vinyl records to MP3 format Compatible with 7”, 10” and 12” records AND 3 Speed: 33.1/3 45 and 75 RPM

Duo Security Light Solar PIR Sensor Light 10 White LED • Provides bright light and insures security around the house and garden • Twin 5 white LED lamps with PIR (passive infra-red) motion sensor • Hinged mounting bracket allows lamps to be positioned on the corner of a fence or wall if required • Each individual lamp can be swivelled up or down and from side to side • Illuminates for 30 secs when PIR detects movements – over 500 operations when fully charged • Replaceable rechargeable battery pack • Panel can be used remotely (5m : 15ft cable) or clipped into mounting bracket • No operating costs AVAILABLE at 49.99 FROM - 626 662 397 / 626 654 630 www.calpemountain.com

Fisherman’s Kayak lets you fish where no kayaker has fished before Who ever heard of fishing in a kayak? Until the Fisherman’s Kayak came along, kayak fishing was an activity worthy of a Three Stooges episode. This one lets you cruise out to that special spot, sneaking along motorless just like a normal kayaker so you won’t scare away all those whopper fish. Then extend the two outriggers for a perfect fishing platform.

It even has a special pull rope that helps you get up out of that thing and into angling position. Available in the blue color you see here or olive drab for even more stealth, you’d better be pretty serious about kayak fishing because it’ll cost you $1900. That’s not too bad considering that some swanky fiberglass kayaks can cost in excess of $3000.

Freeplay Devo Wind Up DAB & FM radio Designed for absolute reliability, the Devo is built on the trusted Freeplay power platform. All of the benefits of Digital Audio Broadcasting are seamlessly integrated with a power efficient FM radio for those times when you are away from a plug socket. The highly efficient rechargeable system with the wind up option offers independance from the mains and replaceable batteries - so this is a radio that is truely portable

GADGETS Here’s another fine selection of some really useful little gadgets. Not all necessary, some complete luxury but we love them none the less. We especially like those solar security lights, now thats a great idea!

Western Digital My Book 2 Essential 500GB External USB 2.0 Hard Drive Easy to set up, easy to use- just plug it in and it’s ready to use USB 2.0 interface - A simple connection that offers convenience and compatibility Fits right in - Takes no more space than a paperback book Smart and energy efficient - Turns itself on and off with your computer Works with both Windows 2000/XP/Vista and Mac OS X 10.4.8 or later

Anoop Negi - Racing with the Bulls

Sony World Photography Awards 2008 Costa Blanca Lifestyle Magazine presents their favourite nominations for the photography event of the year

Sergej Bulychev Rusty Heart of Robotic World

Robin Utrecht - Soccer Team

The World Photography Awards are delighted to welcome SONY as their Headline Sponsor.

Held at the prestigious Palais des Festivals, Cannes, between the 21st and 25th April 2008, the Sony World Photography Awards proudly gives tribute to photographers around the globe in all categories. From landscape to music, photojournalism to fashion, the Sony World Photography Awards showcases the world’s best images taken by the most renowned photographers as well as the yet undiscovered.

Ezra Shaw - Morning Practice

Supported by hundreds of the industry’s top photographers, critics, gallerists, directors, founders and other industry experts, SWPA is the first awards show of its kind, providing an unprecedented international platform in the previously undervalued world of photography.

The aim of the SWPA is always to continuously unearth the images of the future while giving tribute to the vision of the past.

The competition has both professional and amateur categories and is free to enter.

Throughout the five days and evenings, a series of events yet to be announced, will take place amongst over 300 diverse photographs on exhibit, all derived from the three finalists’ work in each of the 11 professional categories. All exhibitions will be open to the public for five days.

On the final evening, (24th April), a spectacular awards ceremony will pay tribute to the photo industry and announce the winners in each professional category. One image will be named world photograph of the year and receive the coveted “Iris d’Or”, including a $25,000 cash prize.

A cocktail reception of 400 VIPs including Academy members, photographers, judges, press and other industry leaders will commence the evening followed by the Awards Ceremony taking place in the Grand Auditorium in front of over 2,000 people.

The awards and exhibition take part at the Palais de Festival in Cannes, home to the Cannes International Film Festival and will mark one of the most exalted prizes in photography, ensuring that the pinnacle of photography, both professional and amateur, is achieved and awarded.

www.worldphotographyawards.org

Lifestyle Health atherine Mckinnon Molloy heads Holistic Healing Spain, which was founded in 2007. Having identified the need for Colonic Hydrotherapy within her local area Catherine set about researching to find the best outlet for training and knowledge.

C

What followed was twelve months extensive training on the digestive system along with anatomy and physiology and then it was off to The Chi Centre in Maidenhead, in the UK, where she studied the practical courses and additional exams, and down to hard work and devotion she passed. Following from here she has since taken further exams to become a member of I-ACT, the International Association of Colonic Therapists, and is now listed.

Next was to choose the correct equipment ensuring that Catherine always provided her clients with the best. She opted for a machine

from America which had been FDA certified and awarded ISO 9001 2000 and ISO 13485 2003. Combining this with all fully disposable equipment and clothing, Catherine is confident that her clients are receiving the best treatment.

Colonic Hydrotherapy is not always an easy subject to discuss, but testimonials have started to put Catherine on the map. ‘I have to say it was a strange experience but not unpleasant in any way, Kate the therapist talks you through every stage of the process and if you wish you can see all that goes on with the machine during the therapy session. Kate started with a comprehensive questionnaire, she then took my blood pressure which I had not expected, then onto the chi machine which gets all the body moving and relaxed ready for your therapy session. Yes I will go back. Mr M 13.01.08’ Visit the web site for more information and a full price list. It could be the best gift you give yourself.

Holistic Healing Spain

Natural Holistic Therapy

By Catherine Mckinnon Molloy Your Health Is Your Wealth Colon Hydrotherapist I ACT Member Reiki Master & Teacher Indian Head Massage

Catherine Mckinnon Molloy Perfect 10, Lower Floor, CC Rioja no 32, Urbanization Villa Martin, Oriheula Costa, 03189 Alicante For Appointments ring 0034 966 764 124

Colon Hydrotherapy Words: Lynn Nicholson

ow long would you wear your clothes without washing them? How long would you go without brushing your teeth, taking a shower or having a bath? More than a day? How about a few weeks or months? Probably not.

Would you let 20, 30, 40 years or more go by? Of course not. Ok, so when was the last time you gave your insides a cleaning?

Historically our bodies have done a superb job of processing the foods we eat, but that was when we lived from the land, not from fast food outlets and boxes of processed rubbish. Your body tries it’s best to find something good in these foods, and when it cannot it leaves it where It sits in the colon, undigested and rotting.

Tragically, we do this day after day, week after week for years and years. Eventually there is so much toxic waste buildup that the body becomes inefficient at absorbing the vitamins and minerals found even in nutritious foods, simply because there is a layer of ‘muck’ which causes a barrier.

This barrier can be broken down with the correct diet, or you can take another option. Colon Hydrotherapy So what are the benefits of colon hydrotherapy?

When we continue to overload our system with rubbish foods, toxic waste can accumulate in the colon and liver, and then circulate throughout the body via the bloodstream. A clean and healthy colon and liver are essential for the health of all the organs and tissues of the body. So it really does not take a brain surgeon to see that if we fill our body with ‘junk’ eventually it will react. Remember, it is not what we eat that makes a difference, it is what we absorb. Blocked colon = no absorption = illness.

Colon hydrotherapy is a process that provides relief, and prevents many chronic illnesses. It also helps in eliminating and clearing the colon of accumulated wastes, bacteria, toxins, gas,

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mucus, parasites, and cellular debris which then allows the colon to perform its natural function of absorption more effectively.

Simply by doing this you will see an improvement in your skin, your immune system will improve and most importantly, your digestive system will come alive. Remember, not what you eat but what you absorb.

So many conditions are caused by bad digestion, by having a blocked colon. Walking around with toxins loading your system are obviously going to have an adverse affect on how you feel and consider this, the average person could be carrying around 6kg of rubbish within their system (depending on their diet) how much better do you think they would feel with this removed.

Take a look around you. Grey skin, poor skin, bloated stomachs, miserable, confused, we have all seen them. Now take a look at yourself. How is your diet? How much water do you drink? How is your skin? Are you constipated? Are you forgetful?

I am not suggesting that everyone needs to have colonic hydrotherapy, and for some, the most important thing to do is to educate on how to eat nutritionally, but for many it is a good start towards improving the quality of life, but it should be the start to a change, not a quick solution and then back to 2 euro breakfasts and beer!

Dating back to ancient times, enemas were recorded as early as 1500 B.C., in an Egyptian medical document called the “Eber Papyrus”, and I think we could all do very well in listening to our ancestors when it comes to our health.

Mountain View Therapies

M

ountain View Therapies was started by Mary Teresa Holden as a place where people could come for help with bowel problems using Colonic Hydrotherapy - a therapy in which she passionately believes.

Mary started her nursing career in 1971 in Northern Ireland. Over the next 30 years she gained experience in many areas, but preferred surgery and gynaecology. She worked at a senior level and was a practitioner in interventional radiology where she was instrumental in developing patient information leaflets. She also worked with consultants helping to set up breast screening programs and attended a number of related breast care courses in the UK. Birmingham University offered Mary’s next challenge implementing programs and undertaking medical research into undiagnosed diabetes & cardiac rehabilitation. She gained qualifications in diabetic nursing from Aston University, Central England, a Diploma in teaching and certificates on counselling skills.

Having experienced health problems in the past herself, she investigated complimentary care and gaining considerable health benefits, she extended her training to become a Colonic Hydrotherapist and now offers her vast experience at Mountain View Therapies.

Mary is a member of the Association and Register of Colonic Hydrotherapists and insured with Holistic Insurance.

Mary also offers detox breaks, when her clients can come and stay at her clinic and really enjoy the full benefit of either a 3 or 5 day detox. This allows you to cleanse yourself physically, mentally and emotionally and you leave completely refreshed.

Visit the website and you can read more about how Mary can help you get yourself back on

Mary also offers detox breaks, when her clients can come and stay at her clinic and really enjoy the full benefit of either a 3 or 5 day detox.

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